Ballot Question 2 would amend the state Constitution by restoring the right to vote to former prisoners, a category estimated to include more than 15,000 Rhode Island citizens.

Currently, felons on parole or probation cannot vote.

The Providence-based Rhode Island Right to Vote coalition ( www.restorethevote.org ) organized in 2004, after the Rhode Island Family Life Center published a study on the consequences of felon disenfranchisement for Rhode Island communities.

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According to the study, 1 in 5 black men is barred from voting statewide; 1 in 11 Hispanic men is barred from voting statewide; the rate of disenfranchisement in urban areas is 3.5 times the rate for the rest of the state; and more than 10 percent of South Providence residents are disenfranchised.

I even like the wording of this amendment. the current wording could be parsed to say that even if you had the felony overturned, you may not get your vote reinstated. Currently the only terms to be fullfilled is if the sentence is completed, not good behavior, not overturned, not parole, completed. Big grey area.

If it passes, you leave prison, your rights are re-instated. All your rights should be returned not just select ones. you have fullfilled your obligation to society.

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